A usually quiet stretch of the Clatskanie River turned into an evacuation zone on Saturday, as nearly 200 people were pushed out of Rivers Edge RV Park when floodwater surged through the property, swamping pads and leaving trailers and vehicles jumbled in its wake. Firefighters and county search-and-rescue crews swept the park to move residents to higher ground.
Responders from the Clatskanie Fire District, the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office and Columbia County Search and Rescue worked to get residents out, account for people and pets, and shepherd them to safety, according to KOIN. Officials said crews spent the morning guiding people out of the low-lying park and into nearby shelter after water from the Clatskanie River overtopped vulnerable areas and rushed into the site.
“Our priority is making sure residents are safe and have a place to go,” Columbia County Emergency Management director Corey Padrón told KOIN. County officials cautioned that river conditions could keep shifting and urged people in low-lying areas to stay alert for changing alerts and instructions.
River Levels And Forecast
The National Weather Service issued a Flood Watch for the Lower Columbia River and parts of northwest Oregon through Saturday afternoon, warning that saturated ground and already full rivers could trigger more flooding. Forecasters also noted that tides and runoff might push water levels higher later in the day. For the latest forecast details and up-to-date safety guidance, check the National Weather Service.
Shelters And Where To Get Help
Clatskanie Middle/High School was opened as the main shelter for displaced residents, giving evacuees a place to regroup. The city of Rainier also set aside temporary space for those who needed to remain close to their RVs. Rivers Edge RV Park sits along the Clatskanie River at 1309 Swedetown Road. Family members and friends trying to check on evacuees can call Columbia non-emergency dispatch at 503‑397‑1521.
Next Steps For Residents
County officials said formal damage assessments and recovery planning will begin as the river drops, but stressed that residents should stay out of floodwater and avoid driving through it. Once it is safe to return, they urged people to carefully document any damage. For flood-safety tips and information on county recovery resources, visit Columbia County and the National Weather Service.
